Asparagus

A Member of the Lily Family

Asparagus is a great vegetable for anyone who is interested in losing weight. It has plenty of nutrients like vitamins A & C PLUS it tastes pretty good too. Look for compact bunches of spears with closed tips. The bigger the asparagus is, the more tender it is.

Mixed Vegetable Grill

2 tablespoons light brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt (your favorite brand)
1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 asparagus spears, ends trimmed
1 med bell pepper, cut into 6 strips
1 medium zucchini, cut lengthwise into 1/2" slices
1 med yellow squash, cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch slices
1 small sweet potato, cut into 1/4-inch rounds

(Note: The pieces of vegetables need to be big enough to not fall through the rack on your grill.)

Preheat your grill. Combine the first five ingredients and set aside. Put the vegetables in a large bowl. Sprinkle the oil over them then toss to coat. Gradually add the spice mixture as you toss it in.

To cook, put the vegetables diretly on the grill rack over medium hot coals.Grill until tender, about 10 minutes. Be sure to turn them often.

Grilled Asparagus

1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and peeled
4 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt

Preheat your grill. Put the asparagus on a plate or in a shallow bowl. Drizzle the oil over it then roll it around until the spears are coated. Sprinkle with salt then roll them again.

To cook them, put the spears directly on the rack. Every minute or so, turn them about 1/4 of the way. You'll get some brown spots as the natural sugars carmelize but don't let it burn. They take about 5 minutes to cook. Serve hot.